There’s nothing quite like the comfort of a slow-simmered stew—especially when it’s oven-baked to perfection. This hearty beef and mushroom stew is everything you crave in a cold-weather meal: rich, savory, deeply flavored, and incredibly satisfying. Unlike stovetop versions, oven-baking ensures the flavors meld beautifully, the beef becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender, and the mushrooms release their earthy depth into every spoonful. It’s the kind of dish that makes your kitchen smell heavenly and your family eager to gather at the table.
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Ingredients (and Why They Matter)
2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into chunks – The marbled cut ensures juicy, tender bites after long, slow cooking.
2 tbsp olive oil – Helps sear the beef, locking in flavor and adding richness.
1 large onion, chopped – Adds sweetness and depth as it caramelizes.
3 carrots, sliced – Bring natural sweetness and color contrast to the stew.
3 celery stalks, chopped – Provide a subtle, aromatic base for the broth.
4 cloves garlic, minced – Infuses bold, savory notes into the stew.
16 oz mushrooms, sliced (cremini or button mushrooms preferred) – Add hearty texture and earthy umami flavor.
3 tbsp tomato paste – Concentrated flavor that deepens the stew’s richness.
1 cup red wine – Deglazes the pan and adds complexity (optional but highly recommended).
4 cups beef broth – The flavorful liquid base that keeps the stew rich and savory.
2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce – Adds a tangy, savory kick.
2 bay leaves – Classic aromatic for stews.
1 tsp dried thyme (or 2–3 fresh sprigs) – Earthy herb that enhances the mushrooms.
2 tbsp all-purpose flour – Thickens the stew for a luscious consistency.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste – Essential for seasoning layers of flavor.
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) – Adds a fresh pop of color and flavor just before serving.
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Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Low and slow is the secret to fork-tender beef.
2. Sear the beef: Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven. Pat beef chunks dry, season with salt and pepper, and brown in batches. This creates a caramelized crust that adds deep flavor. Remove and set aside.
3. Sauté the aromatics: In the same pot, add onions, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–7 minutes until softened and fragrant. Stir in garlic and tomato paste, cooking for another 2 minutes.
4. Deglaze with wine: Pour in red wine, scraping up the brown bits from the bottom of the pot. Let it simmer for 3–4 minutes to reduce slightly.
5. Build the stew base: Return the beef to the pot. Add mushrooms, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, bay leaves, and thyme. Stir to combine.
6. Thicken slightly: Whisk flour into a small amount of cold broth or water, then stir it into the pot. This helps create a thick, velvety stew.
7. Bake: Cover the Dutch oven with its lid and transfer it to the oven. Bake for 2.5 to 3 hours, until the beef is tender and the flavors are fully developed.
8. Finish and serve: Remove bay leaves, taste, and adjust seasoning. Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
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Why This Recipe Is Loved
Deep, layered flavors from oven-baking rather than quick stovetop cooking.
Tender beef that practically melts in your mouth.
Hearty mushrooms that make the stew feel luxurious and earthy.
Family-friendly and freezer-friendly, perfect for meal prep or entertaining.
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Pro Tips for Perfect Beef and Mushroom Stew
Don’t skip the sear. Browning the beef is the key to rich flavor.
Use a Dutch oven. Its even heat retention makes it ideal for slow oven-baking.
Add mushrooms later if you prefer them firmer—stir them in during the last hour of baking.
Make ahead: This stew tastes even better the next day, as the flavors continue to develop.
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Serving Suggestions
This oven-baked beef and mushroom stew is hearty enough on its own, but it shines when paired with:
Creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the gravy.
Buttery egg noodles for a rustic, old-fashioned touch.
Crusty artisan bread to mop up every last drop.
Simple green salad for a refreshing contrast.
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Conclusion
If you’re craving a comfort food classic that’s both simple and impressive, this Oven Baked Hearty Beef and Mushroom Stew is your answer. With minimal prep and the oven doing most of the work, you’ll be rewarded with a deeply flavorful dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Whether it’s for a family dinner, a cozy night in, or a
make-ahead meal, this recipe delivers every time. Once you try it, it’s sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.
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